The 6 Levels of Thinking Every Learner Should Master
Introduction
There are six levels or types of thinking that every student or learner of any age should master. Each of these six levels leads to different results. Unfortunately, many students get stuck in the first few levels, causing stress and frustration. By learning to think deliberately at the right level, you can achieve top academic results with confidence.
Level 1: Remember
The first level involves memorizing information, often through repetitive techniques like rereading and flashcards. This level is called “Remember,” and it unlocks level one results, which is “Regurgitate.” This means listing, defining, and stating facts. However, this method is not effective for long-term retention.
Level 2: Understand
The second level focuses on comprehension rather than repetition. This level is called “Understand,” and it unlocks level two results, which is “Explain.” It allows you to answer questions that require explaining concepts or processes. This level is crucial for most assessments up until later in university.
Level 3: Apply
Level three involves using knowledge to solve problems. This is the “Apply” level, where you unlock the ability to solve simple problems directly using learned concepts. This level is essential for fields like math, physics, and coding, where procedural problem-solving is common.
Level 4: Analyze
At level four, you compare and contrast information. This level is called “Analyze,” and it unlocks level four results, which is “Comparison.” Techniques like Venn diagrams, tables, summaries, and mind maps help you see relationships between concepts. This level requires more mental effort but leads to deeper knowledge and stronger memory.
Level 5: Evaluate
Level five is about making judgments and asking why something matters. This level is called “Evaluate,” and it unlocks level five results, which is “Prioritize.” At this level, you form conclusions and justify them. This level requires significant mental effort but is essential for top learners and senior positions in any profession.
Level 6: Create
Level six involves synthesizing new information from what you already know. This level is called “Create,” and it unlocks level six results, which is “Hypothesize.” It is about generating answers for gaps in knowledge. This level is less important for most people unless you are at the highest levels of education or your profession.
The Better Way to Reach Higher Levels
Instead of starting at level one and moving up, start at level five and move down. By focusing on evaluation, you force yourself to understand and analyze information, leading to better memory retention and overall mastery.
Conclusion
Mastering the six levels of thinking can lead to significant academic and professional success. Focus on higher levels of thinking, like evaluating and analyzing, to achieve deeper understanding and long-term retention.
FAQs
Q1: What is the difference between level one and level two thinking?
A: Level one involves memorizing information, while level two focuses on understanding and explaining concepts.
Q2: How can I improve my ability to analyze information?
A: Use techniques like Venn diagrams, tables, summaries, and mind maps to compare and contrast information.
Q3: Why is level five thinking important?
A: Level five involves making judgments and prioritizing information, which is essential for top learners and senior positions.
Q4: How can I reach higher levels of thinking more effectively?
A: Start at level five (Evaluate) and work your way down. This method forces you to understand and analyze information, leading to better memory retention.